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6 Scary Facts about Lyme Disease in Dogs

Lyme disease is a scary thought for people, with approximately 30,000 cases of the illness being reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) every year. But are you aware that Lyme disease can also affect dogs? Like in humans, it is transmitted by a bacterium spread through the bite of an infected tick. Here are some other disturbing facts you may not have known about Lyme disease in dogs.

1. Tick Nymphs REALLY Small

At less than 2mm in length, a tick nymph is smaller than the period at the end of this sentence.

6. Lyme Disease Can Be Fatal

Although it does not occur commonly in dogs, Lyme disease can cause kidney failure and death in severe cases. The most common sign of Lyme disease in dogs is arthritis, which causes sudden lameness, pain ands sometimes swelling in one or more joints.

Protect Your Pet

Discuss with your veterinarian what are the best ways to protect your dog from Lyme disease, especially if you live in area where it is endemic. There are several options that can fit your personal preferences and your pet’s lifestyle, including tick preventatives.

Learn More:

lameness

Any type of pain or tenderness or lack of soundness in the feet or legs of animals

endemic

The presence of a disease within a given area

bacterium

The singular form of the word bacteria; a tiny, microscopic organism only made up of one cell.

arthritis

A medical condition in which the joints become inflamed and causes a great deal of pain.